Historical saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) management projects typically include root plowing and raking, dozing, mowing, prescribed burning or cut-stump treatments. However, these methods typically profice only short-term benefits and are labor intensive. Resprouting from roots and/or stem segments typically results in increased stem density after mechanical treatments or fire. Treatment costs for mechanical or cut-stump treatment is often excessive. Foliar applications of herbicides historically have not provided acceptable control. Research conducted by New Mexico State University indicates that Arsenal applied alone or in combination with Roundup can provide saltcedar mortality of 95% or greater. Application methods tested include fixed-wing aircraft, helicopter, backpack, trailer mounted sprayer and carpet roller. Ground-based foliar spray applications provided greater than 90% control with Arsenal applied at 1% v/v or Arsenal + Roundup applied at 0.5% +0.5% v/v. Carpet roller applications at 0.125% Arsenal + 0.25% v/v Roundup also resulted in greater than 90% saltcedar mortality. Results from aerial trials indicated that saltcedar mortality of 90-99% can be obtained with Arsenal applied at 1 lb/ac or Arsenal + Roundup applied at 0.5 + 0.5 lb/ac. NMSU recommends that treated saltcedar be left undisturbed for at least two growing seasons following application for best results. Biological control agents have not yet been approved for release in the U.S. However, biological control holds great promise as an additional tool for the management of saltcedar.
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